Tennessee Senate Bill SB0421

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/25
• Chaptered: 4/28/25
• Passed: 4/28/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 33; Title 41; Title 53 and Title 63, relative to healthcare prescribers.

Impact

The bill's implementation is set to increase regulation around prescriptive authority concerning buprenorphine, which is a key medication in combating opioid addiction. By limiting prescriptions to licensed physicians, it aims to enhance the quality and safety of treatment options available, particularly within state correctional facilities. This move is expected to facilitate better monitoring and reduce misuse of these medications in high-risk environments.

Summary

Senate Bill 0421 aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated across several titles concerning healthcare prescribers, specifically focusing on the regulation of buprenorphine prescriptions for opioid use disorder treatment. This legislation restricts the authority to prescribe buprenorphine to physicians specifically licensed under Title 63 while setting stringent conditions for other healthcare providers. It intends to streamline treatment protocols within correctional facilities where specific providers can only prescribe buprenorphine under closely monitored conditions, including patient caps and the requirement for physician oversight.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB 0421 appears to be cautiously supportive among legislators concerned about opioid misuse and the need for structured treatment forms in correctional settings. However, there are discussions noting the potential for increased burdens on already strained healthcare systems and worries about the access to treatment for patients outside of these facilities. Proponents argue that such strict regulations are necessary to prevent misuse and ensure standardized treatment protocols.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding the bill revolve around the rigidity of prescribing practices. Critics argue that limiting prescriptive authority may hinder efforts to address opioid dependency comprehensively, especially for patients in need who may not fit into the narrow categories defined by the bill. There is concern that the requirement for extensive oversight and collaboration with licensed physicians could impose additional barriers to care, potentially impacting the timely access to medication-assisted treatment that is crucial for recovery.